Mahasu is one of the various forms of Nati folk dance of Himachal Pradesh. The dance is called Mahasu probably because it was originated in the region of Mahasu Pahari speaking area. In Himachal Pradesh, Mahasu Pahari is spoken in a very large region which includes more than ten lakh people. It is mainly spoken in Shimla and Solan.
Nati Dance
The Nati dance can be considered one of the most famous dances of Himachal Pradesh. People from all over the world come to see this dance. Mahasu Nati is performed in the honor of Lord Mahasu. Mahasu Nati is a big part of the Mahasu festival conducted in August in the local language it is called the Mahasu Devta fair. The tune of the folklore songs is soft and smooth. Dancers sway themselves in motion after the melodies start. The dancers forget themselves in the melodies and dance. Some of the lines go as:
Hai hai meri shobli promila
Oye oye meri shobli promila
Tere pyaar m pagal m promila
Some of you might think that there are lines of some old song but it is not. Folk dances are based on real-life whether it is work-life or love life. You will find dances based on all real-life concepts.
Mahasu Dance Costumes
Both male and female wear their best clothing. At the festival, everyone can be seen in colourful clothing. During the performance, male dancers wear traditional clothing and female dancers wear jewellery and makeup.
Mahasu Jatar Festival
There is also a festival named Mahasu Jatar which is celebrated near Mahasu village in the month of May (Baisakh). The festival celebration continuous for two days and is conducted in front of the Durga Devi temple. People from nearby areas come and take part in it.
All sorts of folk dances can be seen performing at the festival and Mahasu is one of them. So if you are ever in Himachal Pradesh make sure you get a glimpse at the Mahasu dance.
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